Falsetto Master Richard Ho`opi`i Passes Away

The family of Ho`opi`i announced his death Saturday morning on daughter-in-law Torie Ho`opi`i’s Facebook page.

“It’s with a heavy heart, that we announce the passing our dad, Richard Kealoha Ho`opi`i,” the post reads. “But we are rejoicing as he is no longer suffering and is in heaven with Jesus.”

Among many accomplishments in his lifetime, Ho`opi`i was one half of the musical duo the Ho`opi`i Brothers and in 2015 won a Na Hoku Hanohano Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Thank you for all the love and support throughout this journey of his illness,” the post continues. “Your prayers were felt tremendously. Mahalo to the community of Maui and abroad for everything you have done. From bringing his house together, to all the donations we have received to cover his medical expenses. On behalf of my his wife, Priscilla Ululani Kaonohi Hoopii we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.”